Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Autodesk MotionBuilder VS Keyshot

Compare Autodesk MotionBuilder VS Keyshot and see what are their differences

Autodesk MotionBuilder logo Autodesk MotionBuilder

MotionBuilder 3D character animation software enables user to capture, edit, and play back complex character animation in a highly responsive, interactive environment.

Keyshot logo Keyshot

KeyShot 3D rendering and animation software is the fastest, easiest way to create amazing, photographic visuals of your 3D models. Enter your search in the box aboveTryYour download of KeyShot is only moments away.
  • Autodesk MotionBuilder Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-06-19
  • Keyshot Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-12-23

Autodesk MotionBuilder features and specs

  • Real-Time 3D Animation
    MotionBuilder provides real-time character animation capabilities, making it ideal for creating animations that require quick iterations and immediate feedback. This allows animators to efficiently fine-tune their work without lengthy render times.
  • Mocap Integration
    The software offers robust integration with motion capture data, enabling users to easily import, edit, and refine mocap files. This feature is particularly valuable for projects requiring realistic human motion and complex character interactions.
  • Character Rigging Tools
    MotionBuilder includes advanced character rigging tools, allowing animators to create complex character setups and make precise adjustments to rigs. This facilitates greater control over character movement and deformation.
  • Animation Layering
    With its non-destructive animation layering system, MotionBuilder enables animators to blend and mix different animation layers seamlessly. This helps in managing and modifying animations without altering the base animation.
  • Interoperability
    MotionBuilder integrates smoothly with other Autodesk products like Maya and 3ds Max, as well as third-party applications. This interoperability enhances workflow efficiency for studios and professionals using multiple software tools.

Possible disadvantages of Autodesk MotionBuilder

  • Complex Learning Curve
    For beginners, the interface and features of MotionBuilder can be challenging to master. It requires a significant time investment in learning to utilize its wide array of tools effectively.
  • High System Requirements
    Operating MotionBuilder at optimal performance levels demands high system specifications, including advanced graphics capabilities. This can be a limitation for users with standard hardware setups.
  • Cost
    As a professional-grade tool, MotionBuilder comes with a substantial subscription cost, which might be prohibitive for small studios or independent artists with limited budgets.
  • Limited Non-Character Animation Features
    While MotionBuilder excels in character animation, its features for animating non-character elements like props or environments are less comprehensive compared to other software like Maya.
  • Subscription-Based Model
    The software is only available through a subscription-based model, which can be less appealing to users who prefer perpetual licensing or have inconsistent production schedules.

Keyshot features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    KeyShot offers an intuitive and streamlined interface that makes it easy for beginners and professionals alike to navigate and use effectively.
  • Real-time Rendering
    With real-time ray tracing and global illumination, KeyShot allows users to see their changes immediately, significantly speeding up the workflow.
  • High-Quality Output
    KeyShot produces photorealistic renderings with accurate lighting, materials, and textures, making it a top choice for producing high-quality visuals.
  • Wide Material Library
    The software comes with a vast library of materials and textures that can be easily applied and customized to achieve the desired look.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    KeyShot supports both Windows and macOS, making it accessible to a broader range of users.
  • Integration with 3D Modeling Software
    It offers seamless integration with popular 3D modeling software like SOLIDWORKS, Rhino, and SketchUp, which helps maintain a smooth workflow.

Possible disadvantages of Keyshot

  • High Cost
    KeyShot can be quite expensive, especially for smaller studios or individual users, with licensing fees that add up over time.
  • Limited Animation Features
    While KeyShot has some animation capabilities, they are not as extensive or advanced as those found in dedicated animation software.
  • Resource Intensive
    The software can be quite demanding on system resources, requiring a powerful computer to run efficiently, especially for complex scenes and renderings.
  • Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    Although easy to start with, mastering KeyShot's advanced features and getting the most out of the software can take time and effort.
  • Limited Post-Processing Tools
    KeyShot's post-processing capabilities are relatively basic compared to some other rendering software, necessitating additional editing in other programs.
  • No GPU Rendering
    As of the latest version, KeyShot primarily relies on CPU rendering, which might be slower compared to modern renderers that utilize GPUs for enhanced performance.

Autodesk MotionBuilder videos

Autodesk MotionBuilder Software Overview

More videos:

  • Review - Autodesk MotionBuilder 2018 - Overview

Keyshot videos

KEYSHOT 9 - REVIEW / WALKTHROUGH

More videos:

  • Review - MAVERICK STUDIO -THE KEYSHOT KILLER?
  • Review - KEYSHOT 9 - NEW FEATURES!
  • Review - Keyshot 11 Released - New Features Review!
  • Review - What is keyshot used for

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Autodesk MotionBuilder and Keyshot)
3D
4 4%
96% 96
3D Modeling
3 3%
97% 97
Game Development
3 3%
97% 97
3D Rendering
0 0%
100% 100

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Reviews

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Keyshot Reviews

10 Best V-Ray Alternative Software for Rendering
KeyShot is a powerful and intuitive 3D rendering software designed to create animations, interior graphics, and much more. It is the best software for creating professional-grade animated graphics. With its easy user interface, you can apply materials and lighting in a few seconds without hassle. Keyshot can be used by professionals, including architects and interior designers.
Source: foyr.com
15 Best Maya Alternatives
KeyShot is more or less a suite as it supports various exclusive products including KeyShot Animation, KeyShot Viewer, KeyShotXR, and KeyVR.
10 Best KeyShot Alternatives For Rendering 3D Models
Blender is the best KeyShot alternative for users who can’t afford to purchase a paid program. It is great for novice designers or those creating simple 3D graphics/models. Blender is open-source software with a feature-rich interface, collection of visual effects, third-party plug-in support, dynamic playback and more. Most of all, I like that the interface is completely...
Source: fixthephoto.com

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Autodesk MotionBuilder and Keyshot, you can also consider the following products

Blender - Blender is the open source, cross platform suite of tools for 3D creation.

Adobe Fireworks - Adobe Fireworks is a bitmap and vector graphics editor.

Cinema 4D - Cinema 4D is a 3D modeling, animation, motion graphics and rendering application.

Autodesk Maya - Maya is 3D computer animation software with powerful modeling, rendering, simulation, texturing, and animation tools for artists, modelers, and animators.

Autodesk 3DS Max - 3ds Max is software for 3D modeling, animation, rendering, and visualization. Create stunning game enrivonments, design visualizations, and virtual reality experiences.

V-Ray - Learn why V-Ray for 3ds Max’s powerful CPU & GPU renderer is the industry standard for artists & designers in architecture, games, VFX, VR, and more.